Aelia opens new shop at Lyon

Gavin Lipsith

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The retailer’s latest investment in its French regional airport network was unveiled yesterday at Lyon St Exupéry airport

Aelia has opened a new outlet at Lyon St Exupéry airport terminal one. The 250sq m (2,690sq ft) multi-category outlet opened on July 12 and caters for both Schengen and non-Schengen traffic.

The new store enjoys a prime position opposite passengers as they emerge from the airport’s security check. It will offer fragrances, cosmetics, liquor, tobacco, wines and champagnes, confectionery, fine foods, watches, sunglasses and fashion accessories.

Aelia regional operations director Pascal Le Droff said: “This project...further underlines our commitment to investing in our regional airports. Lyon is a vital platform for us, in a city that is rapidly developing as a centre for business and tourism. The new store has a fantastic location that should improve penetration and drive sales.

“The store features a wide, inviting entrance ...and the interior is bright with a contemporary look. We’re especially confident that our range of regional gourmet food will perform well given Lyon’s status as the centre of French gastronomy. All in all we’re confident of a solid increase in sales per passenger.”

Le Droff added that Aelia will complete its new 660sq m (7,102sq ft) store at Marseille Provence airport in September and would also renovate its outlet at Nantes Atlantique airport this year.

Lyon St Exupéry is the fourth biggest airport in France and welcomed 6.8m passengers (4m international) in 2006, an increase of 2.9% on the previous year.